CLINIC DIRECTOR | PHYSICAL THERAPIST
I am a mother of four. Two of my children left far too soon, and I faced the trials of grief through loss firsthand. God’s presence remained steadfast through my journey, and I soon realized the blessings of my children gone too soon and God’s amazing ability if we are open to listening.
I am a physical therapist who specializes in pelvic floor dysfunction, and many women I walk alongside professionally have experienced their own loss.
My motivation for this book became a passion within a week of losing our first daughter. It has persistently nudged at my heart to write this book so that even one person might find Christ and experience Him as they write their story.
Jessica Dorrington
The story of the sand dollar will always hold a precious and special place in my heart.
A few days after our stillbirth, our family ventured to the beach. Seeing only the raging storms of the ocean and insurmountable grief, we walked the beach and found 30 full sand dollars in perfect form. It was a rarity on the Oregon coast and its meaning even larger in the story of our loss. It was the first thing in my journey, that brought a glimmer of hope and an ounce of peace.
Then when I contemplating moving forward with the publisher’s acceptance of my manuscript, we found over 70 tiny full sand dollars no bigger than my pinky. It confirmed it was time to share my story.
You see, the sand dollar is a little symbol of faith. It is delicate, fragile and in perfect form. Yet, it can withstand even the stormiest of waters in the tumultuous seas. And when you examine it closely, you will see the splendor of its markings.
And here is how the book name was born, Release the Doves. Because our babies are all waiting for us to spread good will and peace through their stories. Share yours on our Stories Page.
Here is the Poem, “Legend of the Sand Dollar.”
Legend of the Sand Dollar Poem
There’s a lovely little legend
That I would like to tell,
Of the birth and death of Jesus
Found in this lowly shell.
If you examine closely
You’ll see that you find here,
Four nail holes and a fifth one
Made by a Roman’s spear.
On one side the Easter Lily,
Its center is the star,
That appeared unto the shepherds
And led them from afar.
The Christmas Poinsettia
Etched on the other side,
Reminds us of His birthday
Our happy Christmastide.
Now break the center open
And here you will release,
The five white doves awaiting
To spread Good Will and Peace.
This simple little symbol
Christ left for you and me,
To help us spread His Gospel
Through all Eternity.